When it comes to improving your home’s resale value, not all renovations are created equal. In fact, some house improvements like eccentric additions and solar panels are rarely worth the payoff. Before writing off new and improved remodels bank account drainers, take a second look at your renovation of choice’s return on investment.  When done correctly, updating aspects of your home can significantly increase your ROI and catch the eye of potential buyers in overcrowded markets.

Before you dive deep into repairs, renovations, and decor, make sure you brush up on which home improvements pay off and which you should ignore. Although you may think elaborate landscaping and splashes of color are ultimate money makers, your funds will be better spent on these five remodels. 

Kitchen remodels

The first space to prioritize on your renovation tour should be the kitchen. Most homes feature the kitchen as a central space, meaning it should stand out as updated and modern. Between outdated cabinetry, dull hardware, and worn-down appliances, the list of potential buyer turn-off’s is long. However, you can easily revamp a drab kitchen with a few critical upgrades. 

Consider installing a crisp tile backsplash, painting or staining dated cabinetry, swapping out old countertops for high-quality stone, or upgrading your appliances to stainless steel models. Something as simple as high-quality, sparkling refrigerators can make all the difference in upping resale value.  

Install or refinish hardwood flooring

Over the past decade, hardwood floors have boomed in popularity, subsequently upping the value of non-carpeted homes. Because hardwood is often a high-ticket item for potential buyers, home sellers may want to consider swapping out the dingy old carpet for high-quality wooden flooring. Additionally, if your home already features hardwood panels, it may be worth the price to revamp them with a new buff and stain. 

Keep up on home maintenance

An often overlooked aspect of improving resale values is ensuring electric, plumbing, and HVAC systems are up-to-date. Maintaining your existing structure and fixing potential problem areas is necessary if your goal is a sizable ROI. Call in the experts for routine check-ups to make sure leaks, frayed wiring, and air blockages are correctly taken care of, and keep a checklist of upkeep tasks to ensure your home stays in tip-top shape. 

Revamp exterior siding

Although many remodeling efforts focus on interior spaces, the exterior of your house is just as important. The first thing potential buyers look at on tours is the outside landscaping, structure, and cladding. In particular, your home’s siding is subject to extreme weather conditions that take a toll over time. Luckily you can replace old, worn-down paneling with durable, mildew-resistant siding that will stand the test of time. 

Replace outdated window features 

An excellent way to increase your resale value is replacing outdated, leak-prone windows with energy-efficient models. When windows wear out, exterior seals break, and dirt builds up, leaving you with murky panes and escaped HVAC air. Not only will updated features save you money on heating and air, but modern panes also stand out against older models, setting you apart from the competition. 

Wrapping up

Remodeling your home to increase your ROI can be an intimidating task, especially if you’re unsure which projects are worth your time and money. Luckily, there are plenty of home improvements—like kitchen upgrades and hardwood finishes— that can skyrocket your resale value, entice potential buyers, and ensure money back after renovations.